Phishing
Phishing scams occur when fraudsters send emails pretending to be someone they’re not, so that they can trick you into revealing your personal information (i.e. usernames, passwords or PINs) or install malware on your device. These emails will often appear to come from a legitimate source and will prompt you to unknowingly click a malicious link or open an infected attachment. Phishing emails have become more sophisticated, with typos/grammatical errors no longer being the main warning sign. Don’t reply to the message or use any contact information it provides. If the message is claiming to be from Tangerine, contact us at phishing@tangerine.ca or call us at 1-888-826-4374.
Smishing and Vishing
Smishing is similar to phishing, except the messages are received by text message or SMS (Short Message Service) instead of email. Vishing (voice phishing) is another type of phishing but is conducted over the phone. Both types of scams will prompt you to provide personal information and will often have a high sense of urgency.
Fake websites
Hackers have become quite creative at finding ways to separate you from your personal information. Fraudulent emails and online ads that direct you to fake websites can appear scarily real. The problem is they’re designed to trick you out of your financial information such as credit card or bank account details. But by being cautious and alert, you can avoid being taken in. Look for the following:
- The website looks poorly designed and/or has broken links.
- You can’t find contact information.
- The website doesn’t outline clear sales, shipping and privacy policies.
- The back button is disabled - being stuck on a page without being able to go back is usually a red flag.
- You’re being asked for your credit card information before you make a purchase.
Fake apps
An increasing number of retailers and service providers require or encourage you to download their own app to do business with them. But just like websites, apps can be duplicated by fraudsters with the intent to steal your personal information. Watch for these tip-offs that the app could be a scam:
- The name of the app publisher is different from the retail app and/or the spelling is incorrect.
- The app doesn’t have user feedback or ratings.
- The app requires several permissions to install.
- The app has multiple pop up ads and/or keeps prompting you for your personal information.
Not sure that website or app is legit? Google the company and see what comes up in your search. Send an email or call the phone number listed to see if they’re really who they say they are.
Phone Scams
Banks and government agencies will never request gift cards or prepaid cards in payment of a debt or bill. If you ever receive a suspicious call, don't provide any personal or sensitive information and get in touch with the organization they claim to be representing. If you get a suspicious call claiming to be from Tangerine, you can call our online security line at 1-888-826-4374.
Requests for confidential information
Tangerine will never send you an email or text message asking for your Client Number, Account Number, Secret Questions or PIN. If you ever receive an email or text message that asks for any of these things, it’s smart to be suspicious of it, and we ask that you forward the suspicious email to us at phishing@tangerine.ca or call us at 1-888-826-4374.